Which organisms should be considered in a nursery school outbreak of diarrhea?

In a nursery school outbreak of diarrhea, the focus is on organisms that are known to cause gastrointestinal illness, particularly in young children who are more vulnerable to infections. The correct set of organisms includes Giardia lamblia, Dientamoeba fragilis, and Cryptosporidium spp.

Giardia lamblia is a well-known protozoan parasite that causes giardiasis, a condition frequently associated with outbreaks in environments where proper sanitation may be lacking, such as daycare settings. Its transmission can occur through contaminated water, food, or surfaces, making it a constant concern in close-contact environments.

Dientamoeba fragilis is another pathogen that can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea. It has been recognized as potentially causing diarrheal disease, especially in children, although its pathogenicity has been debated. However, its presence in nursery school settings aligns with the demographic affected by the outbreak.

Cryptosporidium spp., particularly Cryptosporidium parvum, is a significant cause of diarrheal illness and can be transmitted through contaminated water, which is a common source of outbreaks in communal settings like schools and nurseries. Young children often have not fully developed immune systems, making them more susceptible to this pathogen.

Each of these organisms has been associated with outbreaks and